"Iranians Flee to Armenia Amid Escalating Conflict with Israel"

"The escalating conflict between Israel and Iran has led many Iranians to escape their homeland, crossing into Armenia with fears of violence and instability. With some citizens reporting horrific sights and sounds from the bombings, the desire for safety drives this urgent exodus."

At the Agarak border crossing between Armenia and Iran, the dusty, barren landscape sets the stage for an overwhelming wave of Iranians fleeing their country as conflict with Israel escalates. Those crossing the border reveal a common story of fear, as many claim to have foreign residency or citizenship and have decided to leave their homeland amidst the chaos.

A woman with a modern haircut cradles her baby while her husband haggles with taxi drivers for transportation, while another family, returning from Austria, prepares for their journey. Most seem to be escaping the war that has ripped through their locations, worried for their safety as violence reaches unprecedented levels.

The hostilities kicked off on June 13, following an Israeli strike on nuclear and military sites in Iran, which has resulted in a shocking death toll, with over 657 reported casualties according to the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA). This retaliation sparked a barrage of missile launches from Iran toward Israel, further escalating tensions. As Israel claims dominance over Iranian airspace, residents of Tehran are frantically evacuating the city, which has seen heavy traffic as individuals and families seek refuge.

Travelers recount their harrowing journeys, with some taking over 12 hours to make it to safety; they shared stories of sleepless nights filled with the sounds of bomb explosions. "It was troubling there," expressed a young Afghan man fleeing Tehran. "People who have somewhere to go are leaving, the situation is not good at all."

Others, including a young woman in a white headscarf, also expressed the trauma they witnessed, illustrating the deep psychological scars caused by the relentless barrage of attacks. While some locals remain defiant, such as Ali Ansaye who recently holidayed in Armenia and is returning home, many feel an urgent need to leave.

The varying responses from Iranians at the border highlight the deep divisions created by the ongoing warfare, with some still expressing loyalty to their homeland, while others harness fear and the will to survive. "Israel cannot come to our home to help us," said Javad, firmly denouncing Israeli intervention. Meanwhile, those returning to Tehran are met with their own anxieties, torn between their homeland and the threat it now holds.